The King of the Nations

The hearts of God’s people had been captured by their neighbors. They had learned their ways and been deceived by their beliefs. This influence was so deep that they even adopted the same worldview.

In this environment God gave Jeremiah a powerful word that reminded them of His truths. He warned them not to “learn the way of the nations.” They were “not be terrified by the signs of the heavens although the nations are terrified by them.”

The lifestyle of these neighbors might have been attractive. But God reminded them that all of their customs were “futile” (NKJV). Their gods were nothing but their own creations.

God’s people may have been reluctant to resist these neighbors. But He declared, “Do not fear them, for they can do no harm, nor can they do any good.”

As is clear from the original Hebrew text, God was reminding them that the things of the world are like a vapor, here for a brief time and then gone forever. Its customs quickly change. In this context, we can see why it is so important that we depend upon Him and trust in Him.

Immediately after this prophecy, Jeremiah spoke a mighty anthem of praise, focusing on God’s greatness. There was none like Him! He was the “King of the nations.” The “true God,” the “living God,” the “everlasting King.”

If you just focus on the things of this world, you, too, can be intimidated. But everything changes if you focus on God. Worship Him! Praise Him. Serve Him! Trust Him.